Karen Marie Koprivec

Karen Marie (Lee) Koprivec, 78, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, in Austin, TX, surrounded by her family after her battle with glioblastoma. Karen was born on March 9, 1948, in Chisholm, Minnesota, to Gordon E. and Helen M. (Koidahl) Lee. A longtime resident of Keewatin, she had a long career at American Bank in Hibbing, where she was well-regarded by both colleagues and customers. Karen was deeply committed to her community, volunteering at Fairview Range Medical Center in Hibbing and delivering for Meals on Wheels. She was known for her generous spirit and her love of hosting. An avid cook and baker, she took pride in preparing large holiday meals, ensuring no guest ever left her home hungry or empty-handed. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family. 

She is survived by her life partner, Phillip VonderHaar; her brothers, Gordon (Terri) Lee and Gary Lee; her children, Wendy, Jami (John) O'Brien, and Christopher (Ashley); and her seven grandchildren: Vincent (Maddie), Willie (Ricardo), Serena, Colby, Gloria, Carson, and Casey.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon E. and Helen M. (Koidahl) Lee.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing, MN. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the beginning of the service at 11:00 am at the funeral home. In keeping with Karen’s memory, the family suggests that those wishing to honor her consider volunteering for a local organization or sharing a meal with someone in need.